Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica & Phil Williamson.
Jessica & Phil, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Phil and Jessica Williamson’s journey into the fitness world is a story of passion, family, and dedication. It all began with their first family-owned gym in Pembroke Pines in 2019. This decision was made only weeks after the couple celebrated their wedding. The Pembroke Pines studio opened and challenged the family to endure the challenges of COVID-19 in the fitness industry. They remained successful and followed with expansions into Coral Springs in 2021 and Davie in 2023. As their business grew, so did their family. They welcomed their first baby in 2021 and their second in 2023, timing these joyful events (unintentionally) with the openings of each new studio.
Phil’s leadership and Jessica’s determination shaped their thriving fitness enterprise. In October 2023, Jessica took a bold step, leaving her corporate career to fully embrace their growing business and family life. With their combined efforts, the couple pushed their studios to new heights, always seeking innovative ways to serve their community.
In of 2024, their passion for wellness led to the creation of Ice Lounge Wellness. Rather than adding another physical location, the duo envisioned a mobile solution. They transformed a trailer with a COLDTUBS IcePod into a traveling wellness oasis, bringing the benefits of cold plunge therapy directly to the people of Broward County.
Today, Ice Lounge Wellness is more than just a service—it’s a reflection of The Williamson family’s commitment to wellness and their community. Whether at their HOTWORX studios, fitness centers, or local events, they’re making cold plunge therapy accessible and personal, all while balancing the joys of raising their young family.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey with Ice Lounge Wellness has been filled with challenges and learning experiences. In the early stages, they’ve faced hurdles such as days with no bookings, mastering the use of a generator to power their mobile setup, and maintaining the correct pH balance in their saltwater tub. Balancing these operational challenges while raising two toddlers has required flexibility and perseverance.
Despite the obstacles, the couple remains committed to their vision. The support and encouragement from their families have been crucial, helping them navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and jumping in whenever a helping hand is needed with the business or the babies. With their determination and a focus on growth, Phil and Jessica continue to bring the benefits of cold plunge therapy to the South Florida community, overcoming each challenge as it comes and adapting their model appropriately.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We are true ambassadors of wellness. When we chose HOTWORX for our first business, infrared saunas were becoming a staple in the habits of our community. We believe in the science ourselves, and followed along as contrast therapy and cryo/cold plunge rose to popularity over the past couple of years. It was only fitting that we create something to go along with our sauna environment. Ice Lounge Wellness is a true reflection of our personalities. The vibes are full on summer, even though you’re in 45 degree water. We pride ourselves in making it a fun experience that people want to come back to again and again. We’ve been building fast and furious over the past year. Through the learnings with both businesses, we realized the true value in any wellness based business is the community we serve. We brought everything together with SoFlo Wellness Collective, an initiative centered on bringing together the best services and resources through local activations. We now host a weekly run club and events in the corporate wellness and community activation space. Join us on SweatPals to connect with us directly and keep up with what we’re doing, and where were going next!
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Our families! Both Phil and Jessica’s parents are supportive of the life we are building. In addition to participating in every studio and cold plunge event, they jump in with childcare when we have crazy events, making sure the kids can be kids and not worry about being at work all the time. It’s been a true growth for the whole family, and we enjoy every second! And of course, our community partners. Putting on an event that matters takes passion and commitment from more than just us. It takes vendors who see the vision, and participants who show up and share the experience with their circles. If you’ve been a part of an event with us, thank you!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iceloungewellness.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iceloungewellness/
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15qMeCK6nW/?mibextid=wwXIfr
